L5-S1 disc prolapse is a condition involving the intervertebral disc between the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5) and the first sacral vertebra (S1) in the lower spine. A prolapse occurs when the soft inner portion of the disc pushes through a tear in the tough outer layer (annulus fibrosus), compressing nearby nerves and causing pain. Factors contributing to L5-S1 disc prolapse include age-related degeneration, injury or trauma, repetitive strain, obesity, and genetic predisposition. Symptoms include lower back pain, sciatica, numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, loss of bowel or bladder control. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history and physical examination, as well as imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, X-rays, nerve conduction studies, and electromyography (EMG).
L5-S1 disc prolapse is a common condition that can be treated with conservative non-surgical approaches such as rest, pain medication, physical therapy, chiropractic care, and epidural steroid injections. If these treatments don’t provide adequate relief or if symptoms are severe, surgery may be considered. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves a small incision in the lower back, a surgical microscope for precise visualization, removal of a disc fragment, and minimal tissue disruption. This procedure typically results in significant pain relief and faster recovery compared to open surgery, with most patients returning to normal activities within a few weeks.
Mrs. Anjana Bhowmik Sarkar from Agartala successfully underwent L5/S1 Micro Lumbar Discectomy Surgery for L5-S1 Disc Herniation at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, under the supervision of Dr. Srinivas Botla, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon.